Good morning. Last
night, I had a warm conversation with President-elect Barack Obama. I
congratulated him and Senator Biden on their impressive victory. I told
the President-elect he can count on complete cooperation from my
administration as he makes the transition to the White House.

I also spoke to
Senator John McCain. I congratulated him on a determined campaign that
he and Governor Palin ran. The American people will always be grateful
for the lifetime of service John McCain has devoted to this nation. And
I know he'll continue to make tremendous contributions to our country.

No matter how they
cast their ballots, all Americans can be proud of the history that was
made yesterday. Across the country, citizens voted in large numbers.
They showed a watching world the vitality of America's democracy, and
the strides we have made toward a more perfect union. They chose a
President whose journey represents a triumph of the American story -- a
testament to hard work, optimism, and faith in the enduring promise of
our nation.

Many of our citizens thought
they would never live to see that day. This moment is especially
uplifting for a generation of Americans who witnessed the struggle for
civil rights with their own eyes -- and four decades later see a dream
fulfilled.

A long campaign has now
ended, and we move forward as one nation. We're embarking on a period of
change in Washington, yet there are some things that will not change.
The United States government will stay vigilant in meeting its most
important responsibility -- protecting the American people. And the
world can be certain this commitment will remain steadfast under our
next Commander-in-Chief.

There's important work to do
in the months ahead, and I will continue to conduct the people's
business as long as this office remains in my trust. During this time of
transition, I will keep the President-elect fully informed on important
decisions. And when the time comes on January the 20th, Laura and I will
return home to Texas with treasured memories of our time here -- and
with profound gratitude for the honor of serving this amazing country.

It will be a stirring sight
to watch President Obama, his wife, Michelle, and their beautiful girls
step through the doors of the White House. I know millions of Americans
will be overcome with pride at this inspiring moment that so many have
awaited so long. I know Senator Obama's beloved mother and grandparents
would have been thrilled to watch the child they raised ascend the steps
of the Capitol -- and take his oath to uphold the Constitution of the
greatest nation on the face of the earth.

Last night I extended an
invitation to the President-elect and Mrs. Obama to come to the White
House. And Laura and I are looking forward to welcoming them as soon as
possible.